Eric Medard / naturepl

Bechstein’s Bat (Myotis bechsteinii)

Myotis bechsteinii

Avg Lifespan

Up to 21 years

Size

Length: 4.3 - 5.3cm; Wingspan: 25 - 30cm; Weight: 7 - 13g

Status

Native and listed as Near Threatened on the global IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981. Priority Species under the UK Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework. European Protected Species under Annex IV of the European Habitats Directive.

Surveying Services

Biological Sample Analysis

Overview

Bechstein’s bats are exceptionally rare in the UK, with their range limited to southern Wales and southern England.

They are found exclusively in woodlands, where they roost in tree crevices or other cavities.

Prior to the most recent ice age, these bats were among the most common species in the UK. However, their population decline is thought to result from the reduction of suitable ancient woodland habitats.

Sampling Advice

A dropping sample with sufficient biological material to be used as a reserve is required in case the extraction is unsuccessful the first time: the fresher a sample is, the more likely the test will be able to extract viable DNA.
Other viable sample types include fur/hair, tissue and blood.
Samples can be taken using a bat dropping collection kit or using your own secure containers/resources.